The Arlo Essential Spotlight Camera works without a subscription, but signing up for one does give you extra features. Even without a subscription, you can live stream, get basic notifications, and manually record. But for things like event-based cloud storage, advanced object detection (like spotting people or vehicles), activity zones, and emergency response integration, you’ll need to subscribe to Arlo's Smart Plans.
The manufacturer says the camera has a rechargeable battery that can last up to six months on one charge, but our research shows that might not always be the case. The actual battery life can vary based on how you use it, the connectivity, and the environment. For example, in colder weather or with heavy use, the battery might drain faster. Some people found it lasted only a few days with a lot of motion or spotlight activity, while others got a few weeks to a couple of months out of it with more moderate use.
To charge the camera, you have to take it down and plug it in with the included USB cable, which can be a hassle if it’s mounted in a tricky spot. People have mentioned that the non-removable battery is a bit of a downside since you have to take the whole camera down to charge it, which means it won't be recording during that time.
If you find this an issue, there's an optional solar panel from Arlo that can keep it charged without needing to take it down.
Though the camera is easy to set up and has good video quality, some people have had trouble with the battery life and needing to recharge often, which can be a bit inconvenient. Depending on what you need, you might want to get the solar panel accessory or look into another Arlo model that has a swappable battery.
All in all, the Arlo Essential Spotlight Camera offers a solid range of features, especially if you pair it with the right accessories and a subscription plan.
